What Is Treflan Herbicide?

By Tami Parrington; Updated September 21, 2017

Treflan is a commercial weed control herbicide. As with any chemical, it is important to understand its proper use and apply it correctly. Treflan is better for large agricultural use on commercial crops because of the complexity of its use. Each type of crop has a specific indication for application, and some require long layovers after Treflan application so it does not damage the intended crop.

Pre-emergent

Treflan is an agricultural pre-emergent chemical application. Pre-emergent herbicides stop weeds before they begin. Apply Treflan at the beginning of the planting season so weeds cannot get a hold and crowd out planned crops.

User Safety

The Occupational Safety and Health Association labels Treflan a hazardous material. Care in use includes wearing the proper clothing--long-sleeved shirts and full pants protect the skin. Users should wear safety goggles and breathing masks during application and should wash their hands after using Treflan and during use before eating, using tobacco, using the bathroom or chewing gum.

Environmental Safety

Treflan is not readily biodegradable. Care must be used in areas where there is watershed because it is toxic to water lifeforms. All transportation vehicles must be clearly marked with hazardous material markers.

Application

Farmers can spray Treflan onto the ground by truck or by drop by air during crop dusting. It is equally effective used before planting or after harvest to prepare the ground for the following spring.

Storage

Treflan is stable when stored in its original container and kept it in a cool, dry place away from open flames. If Treflan is allowed to freeze, it might not kill weeds as indicated.

Dangers

Treflan can cause skin reactions upon contact. Swallowing large amounts can cause toxic reactions. Short-term exposure to vapors is not usually hazardous. Long-term exposure can cause cataracts and can affect the blood, kidneys and liver. Treflan is not known to cause cancer in humans or have any reproductive effects and does not cause birth defects.

References

About the Author

Tami Parrington is the author of five novels along with being a successful SEO and content writer for the past three years. Parrington's journalism experience includes writing for eHow on medical, health and home-related topics as well as writing articles about the types of animals she has raised for years.